How to Get a Visa on Arrival in Dubai? Complete Guide for Travelers
Dubai offers Visa on Arrival (VoA) to citizens of many countries, allowing travelers to enter the UAE without applying for a visa in advance. Here’s everything you need to know:
1. Who is Eligible for a Dubai On-Arrival Visa?
๐ Countries Eligible for Free 30-Day On-Arrival Visa:
- USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and most EU countries.
- This visa is free of charge and can be extended once for another 30 days.
๐ Countries Eligible for Paid 14-Day or 30-Day Visa on Arrival:
- India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and select others.
- If you have a valid USA/UK/EU/Schengen visa (issued at least once in the last 6 months), you may qualify.
- The fee is around AED 100 – 150 (₹2,200 – ₹3,300 or $27 – $41).
๐ GCC Residents (Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar)
- GCC residents with a valid profession visa can get an on-arrival visa valid for 30 days.
2. How to Get an On-Arrival Visa at Dubai Airport?
✅ Step 1: Land at Dubai International Airport (DXB).
✅ Step 2: Proceed to the Immigration Counter.
✅ Step 3: Show Required Documents (Passport, Return Ticket, Proof of Funds, and Visa if applicable).
✅ Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee (if required).
✅ Step 5: Get Your Visa Stamped and Enter Dubai! ๐
3. Required Documents for On-Arrival Visa
๐ Passport (Valid for at least 6 months).
๐ Confirmed Return Ticket (Proof of onward journey).
๐ Hotel Booking or Address of Stay (Recommended).
๐ Valid Visa (if applicable) (for Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, etc., travelers).
๐ Sufficient Funds (May be required for some nationalities).
4. Dubai On-Arrival Visa Fees (2025)
- 30-Day Free Visa → No fee (for eligible countries).
- 14-Day/30-Day Paid Visa → AED 100 – 150 ($27 – $41 or ₹2,200 – ₹3,300).
- Extension Fee → Around AED 500 ($136 or ₹11,500).
5. Can You Extend an On-Arrival Visa?
Yes, most on-arrival visas can be extended once for 30 days. You can apply online via:
- GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs)
- UAE ICP (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship)
6. Alternative Options if You’re Not Eligible
If your country does not qualify for VoA, you can apply for:
✔ Dubai Tourist Visa (30 or 90 days) – Apply via airlines, travel agencies, or UAE hotels.
✔ Dubai Transit Visa (48 or 96 hours) – For short layovers.
7. Important Tips for a Hassle-Free Entry
๐ Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months.
๐ Carry a printed return ticket and hotel booking.
๐ If paying for the visa, carry a credit/debit card (some counters may not accept cash).
๐ Avoid overstaying – fines are AED 50 per day after your visa expires.
8. Can I work in Dubai with an On-Arrival Visa?
No, the on-arrival visa is strictly for tourism and short visits. To work, you need an employment visa.
9. What happens if I overstay my Dubai Visa on Arrival?
You’ll be fined AED 50 per day, plus exit clearance fees. Always extend your visa if needed.
10. Can I get a Visa on Arrival at any UAE airport?
Yes, Dubai (DXB), Abu Dhabi (AUH), Sharjah (SHJ), and other UAE airports offer on-arrival visas.
11. What if my country is not eligible for a Dubai On-Arrival Visa?
You must apply for a Dubai Tourist Visa in advance through:
✔ Airlines (Emirates, Etihad, FlyDubai, Air Arabia)
✔ UAE hotels
✔ Travel agencies
12. Do I need a Covid test or travel insurance for Dubai Visa on Arrival?
As of 2025, Covid tests are not mandatory, but travel insurance is recommended.